Nevermind now, going directly to Philippines instead. Is Manila a good tourist place? Has anyone been there?
Less happening than bangkok. Do not forget the " Doles " pineapple at the small kiosks on the road.
The most upscale malls are in Greenbelt 4 and 5 at Ayala Centre and Bonifacio High Street in Bonifacio Global City, where there are famous brand shops like Mango, Armani and Bulgari. Visit the Divisoria Market where items are sold in bulk at jaw-dropping prices. You can find almost anything here, from cookware to lingerie to toys.
Divisoria is big and chaotic, but it is unparalleled for goods and prices. The mother of all Manila’s markets, chances are you will find whatever you are looking for here. More than anything else, Divisoria is known for textiles. Prices are generally wholesale and you can haggle to the last peso. I would recommend a local guide when venturing out to Divisoria, the chances of getting lost or ripped off are higher than normal here.
MRT: Recto Station
Address: Claro M. Recto Avenue, Manila
Greenhills Shopping Center
Located in an affluent suburb, Greenhills is not just exclusive to Manila's upmarket crew. One of the city's original consumer palaces, it opened in the 1970’s and still pulls in a good crowd eager to explore its rich and varied contents. Thousands of shoppers pile in on weekends to delve into the tiangge, with stalls featuring everything from video games to clothes to furniture.
Address: Ortigas Avenue, Manila
Las Tiendesitas
Located along the C5 road in Manila. Tiendesitas means a cluster of small shops and these closely resemble Bangkok's Chatachak Market. Tiendesitas sells native food, fashion wear and accessories, furniture, antiques, handicrafts, personal care and novelty items, pets, plants, and other Philippine–made products. A must-see when in Manila, if not to make purchases just to experience the sheer vibrancy of the place. A shuttle service leaves from Delicacies Village every hour between 15:00-19:00
Shangri La Plaza Mall
An upscale shopping mall (the name says it all) that encompasses three shopping havens – Marks & Spencer, Ruston’s Tower and Crossings. Packed with world-class brands such as Armani and Cerruti, this is the place to head if you want to kit yourself out in the latest fashions. Featuring great eateries and entertainment options, the mall is easily accessed via MRT.
he Philippines is an excellent destination for anyone interested in picking up elaborate handicrafts, home-furnishings, jewelry, embroidery and baskets. In buying traditional crafts such as silks and carvings, tourists are invariably helping to support a still-growing and fragile economy. There is no doubt that Manila is the place to go for serious shopping. This is a shopping capital, with many air-conditioned, brand-heavy, ultra-modern malls. If you’re looking to buy something a bit more indigenous then the various markets around Manila and on the other islands are laden with handmade, high-quality goods.
Away from Luzon Island and Cebu there is more of a market culture. With any travel experience a trip to the local market should always be a priority if you hope to get better acquainted with the culture and pick up some bargains. English is not an issue in " Manila "
